What is an Exercise Physiologist?

Exercise Physiologist

An Exercise Physiologist (EP) is an allied healthcare professional who specializes in the study of how the human body responds to physical activity and exercise. 

Exercise Physiologists have a strong knowledge based in human physiology and use this to design and implement exercise programs to help individuals achieve specific health and fitness goals, prevent or manage chronic health conditions, and improve overall well-being.

When working with an Exercise Physiologist key components of the process will include:

Assessment: 

At your first appointment, your EP will conduct an assessment of your fitness level, health status and exercise capacity through a variety of tests and measurements.

Prescription:

Based on your assessment, your EP will design a personalized exercise program, based on your individual needs, goals and any existing medical conditions and/or physical limitations/restrictions.

Monitoring:

 Working 1:1 or in a group setting, your EP will supervise and monitor you during exercise sessions to ensure safety and effectiveness of exercise performance.

Education:

Throughout the course of your time and training, your EP will provide you with education on the benefits of exercise, proper exercise technique and lifestyle modifications to promote improved health and wellness.

Rehabilitation:

When recovering from injury or managing chronic health conditions, EPs are well placed to assist in the rehabilitation process. The process can often be more effective as part of a team approach, with other health professionals – your RedoHealth Physiotherapist, Massage Therapist, your GP and your Dietician or Nutritionist.

woman exercise workout redohealth

Exercise Physiologists can be found working in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehab centers, gyms, research centers, sports organizations and private practice. 

Exercise Physiologists work in a collaborative model – they work with you, taking into account your specific needs, medical history and preferences. Before starting any exercise program, especially when you have existing health conditions, it’s important to consult with an experienced health professional to ensure that the planned activity is both safe and suitable.

When should you see an Exercise Physiologist?

Exercise Physiologist

There are many different situations when you would consider seeing an EP, depending on your health and fitness goals or if you have a specific medical condition. 

These would include:

Health and Fitness Goals

If you have specific goals, such as weight loss, muscle gain, improved cardiovascular health or increased flexibility, and EP can health design an individualized program to achieve those goals.

Chronic Health Conditions

If you are dealing with or recently been diagnosed with a chronic health condition (e.g. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, sarcopenia, etc) an EP can design exercise programs tailored to manage or improve these conditions.

Exercise is often a key component of managing chronic diseases (including post-Cancer treatment).

Rehabilitation

When recovering from injury or surgery, and EP can help with the rehabilitation process. They can design safe and effective exercise programs to improve mobility and overall function. At RedoHeallth, our EPs work with our Physiotherapists to ensure you get the most our of your rehabilitation.

Prevention (or Pre-hab)

You may be interested in preventing health issues or decreasing your risk of chronic diseases. In these instances, an EP can provide guidance on incorporating regular exercise in your lifestyle.

Pre-Exercise Assessment

before starting a new exercise program, particularly when your have health concerns, it is advisable that you undergo a pre-exercise assessment by an EP. This assessment will help determine your current fitness level and any potential risks. This is a key part of attending our EP-run classes: ReBound, ReFit and ReForm.

Sports Performance

Athletes seeking to enhance their performance or improve specific components of their training program can benefit from working with an EP. An EP can help optimize training plans, improve endurance and address performance goals.

Overall Well-being

If you’re just looking to improve your overall well-being, quality of life, or energy levels, consulting with an EP can provide vital guidance on developing an balanced and safe exercise routine.

What's the difference between an Exercise Physiologist and a Physiotherapist?

Exercise Physiologist

Exercise Physiologist:

Focus – EPs mainly concentrate on the impact of exercise and physical activity on the body. Exercises prescribed may focus on one or all of the following systems – cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal.

Role – EPs design and implement exercise programs to meet their clients needs and health goals. Programs may be aimed at improving fitness, managing chronic conditions or assisting in rehab. 

Education – Exercise Physiologists typically have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology, Sport Science or a related field. They may also hold specific certifications in Pilates, Strength and Conditioning, Sports, etc.

Physiotherapy Sydney

Physiotherapist:

Focus – Physiotherapists focus on optimizing movement and function in individuals with physical impairments, pain, injuries or disabilities. They address a wide range of conditions affecting musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiopulmonary systems.

Role – Physiotherapists assess, diagnose and treat a variety of conditions using a combination of manual (hands-on) therapy, exercise and other therapeutic techniques (e.g. acupuncture). They work to increase mobility, decrease pain, build strength and enhance overall physical function. 

Education – Physiotherapists typically have a graduate degree (Bachelor, Masters, Doctorate) in Physiotherapy. They must also pass a licensing exam to practice.

As mentioned above, both health professionals work with individuals to enhance physical well-being and improve quality of life. EPs have more of a focus on the physiological effects of exercise through tailored exercise programs, while Physios have a broader scope, which includes clinical diagnosis, to address a variety of physical impairments and conditions using a range of therapeutic interventions. At RedoHealth, or EPs and Physios work in collaboration to develop comprehensive plans for rehabilitation and overall health.

Recent articles

Search

Add Your Heading Text Here